CURRENT AGILE COMPETENCY AMONGST IT PROJECT MANAGERS: A SOUTH AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is engendering a profound transformation in the manner in which individuals experience their daily lives, engage in employment, and establish connections with others. The successful adoption of this new transformation paradigm necessitates the acquisition and application of fresh proficiencies by information technology project managers and professionals. IT project managers play a crucial role in the execution and oversight of Digital Transformation initiatives. However, their proficiency in particular areas may be deficient as a result of the swift advancements in technology. This argument holds particular significance for developing countries like South Africa, as they face the imperative of swiftly adjusting and embracing novel digital company skills to sustain competitiveness within the contemporary Digital Global Economy. The Agile methodology has been acknowledged as a crucial enabler for the success of significant Digital Transformation Projects. This study investigates the existing levels of Agile proficiency among IT project managers and professionals in South Africa who bear the final responsibility for overseeing digital projects in the contemporary digital economy. The results suggest that there is a low level of formal Agile training among IT managers and professionals in South Africa, despite a perceived positive correlation between Agile proficiency and the success of Digital Transformation projects. Furthermore, the level of women’s involvement in the information and communication technology (ICT) industry in South Africa has maintained a modest status since 2018 up till the present day. The researcher’s analysis suggests that the limited adoption of formal Agile training among IT professionals responsible for overseeing Digital efforts in South Africa could potentially be a contributing factor to the elevated incidence of IT project failure. Consequently, it is imperative for all stakeholders to promptly address this issue by implementing necessary corrective measures.